Different Road Rules Across The Country
If you’re driving across the country in Australia, you’ll definitely want to know about some of the major differences between road rules in different states – including uturn laws, laws about cell phone use, and more.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss a few of the differences between road rules across the country. Check them out now, and make sure you abide by the law whether you’re in Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, or anywhere else in the country!
New South Wales
New South Wales was the first state to implement rules against using your cell phone and other electronic devices when driving – though these are now standard in every Australian state.
Roundabouts are also treated a little bit differently in New South Wales than other states in Australia. You must give way to every car in a roundabout when entering – not just vehicles to your right. Failure to abide by this could lead to a fine!
Victoria
While making u-turns at traffic lights Australia-wide is typically prohibited (barring a sign that says it’s okay to do so) Victoria does things a little bit differently. In Victoria, it is always legal to make a U-turn at a traffic light, unless there is a sign explicitly prohibiting you from doing so.
In addition, it is unlawful to attach an empty bike rack to your vehicle when driving in Victoria. Naturally, though, it is permitted to carry a bike rack with a bicycle in it.
South Australia
In South Australia, all drivers must slow down to 25 km/h at children’s crossings in school zones, and while passing any stationary vehicle with powered-on flashing lights.
In addition, SA drivers must use indicators at all roundabouts, including when they are going straight.
In South Australia, it is also permitted to cross single or double-continuous road marking lines to avoid obstructions like fallen trees, illegally-parked cars, or crashed/broken down vehicles.
Western Australia
Western Australia has no major changes from Australia-wide road rules.
Queensland
In Queensland, it is required for you to carry an English translation of your licence if it has been issued in any language other than English. You must have your licence on your person at all times when driving.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, roads have single continuous lines instead of double continuous lines to divide lanes.
When two lanes merge, the vehicle in front always has the right of way. In addition, Tasmanian drivers must stay on the left on multi-lane roads that have speed limits of over 80 km/h.
Australian Capital Territory
In ACT, there are very strict limits regarding alcohol when driving. If drivers do not stop when directed to do so by police, fail the roadside breath test, or refuse to take the test, they are allowed to issue an immediate license suspension.
Road Rules Are Mostly The Same – But With Some Key Differences!
As long as you know the rules of the road in one Australian state, you will likely be just fine as you drive through others. But still, there are some peculiarities – like those listed above – that you may want to keep in mind.
Want to enhance your knowledge of road rules and laws in NSW, Victoria and other Australian states? Contact LTrent Driving School on 02 8748 4500 to learn more about our available driving lessons and professional driving instruction.